I said it before and I'll say it again: 2014 was not for the faint of heart. It is perhaps one of the most intense years of my life, catching me off guard but motivating me to seek my courage, my strength. I feel like the universe has rewarded me with a baby on its way and an engagement to marriage (both of which I know will certainly bring forth new lessons on patience and on seeking an updated, better version of myself, but all is more than well, all is great!). 2014 has been about family, I'd say. Strengthening tethers of existing ones, losing some, and cleaning up new spaces in our life, for something new, hopefully lasting, and beautiful. So cheers to that, the good and the bad, and their beautiful consequences for the future!

Hello 2015, I know you have a lot of surprises in store for me and everyone in this universe, I welcome you with an open heart.

J and I hosted the New Year festivities (we really enjoyed hosting the Christmas dinner and lunch, too) and as per usual, there was a lot of food. My only real contribution: I wrapped an entire Ricotta circle in buttered layers of filo pastry, drizzled lavender oil, rosemary and other herbs on it, baked it, and drizzled honey and sea salt on it before serving with almonds and crostini.